Sandboarding in Dubai: How to Ride the Dunes (Beginner’s Guide)
If you have ever wondered whether you can snowboard in the desert — you can, sort of. Sandboarding in Dubai means standing (or sitting) on a smooth board at the top of a dune and sliding down in a rush of sand and laughter. It is easy, it is free on every safari, and it is one of the activities children and adults enjoy most.
Is Sandboarding Included?
Yes. Sandboarding is complimentary on every package, from the Evening Desert Safari to the VIP desert safari. Boards are provided and our team shows you how.
Sitting or Standing?
Sitting (best for first-timers and children)
Sit on the board, hold the front edge or the straps, keep your feet up and lean back slightly. Steer by dragging a hand or heel in the sand. It is fast enough to be fun and very safe.
Standing (for the adventurous)
Stand sideways with knees bent and weight centred, just like snowboarding. Lean slightly forward to go, back to slow down. Expect a few soft falls — they are part of the fun.
Sandboarding vs Snowboarding
- Speed: sand has more friction, so you go slower than on snow.
- Falls: softer — and you just brush the sand off.
- Lifts: there are none. You walk back up the dune, which is a great workout.
Step-by-Step for Beginners
- Start on a gentle slope near the camp.
- Position the board pointing straight down the dune.
- Sit or stand, then push off gently.
- Keep your weight back and your arms relaxed.
- Try a steeper slope once you feel confident.
Safety Tips
- Check the slope is clear of people before you go.
- Keep your mouth closed on the way down — sand gets everywhere.
- Avoid head-first sliding.
- Children should ride sitting down, with a parent nearby.
- Skip it if you are pregnant or have back or neck problems.
What to Wear
Long trousers, a T-shirt you do not mind getting sandy, and sunglasses. Many guests sandboard barefoot on the cool late-afternoon sand; otherwise wear trainers. Leave your phone with a friend unless you have a secure pocket.
Best Time to Sandboard
Late afternoon, before and around sunset. The sand has cooled, the light is golden and your photos will glow. That is exactly when sandboarding happens on our evening safaris, between dune bashing and dinner.
Photo Ideas
- Film the run from the bottom of the dune looking up.
- Use burst mode to catch the sand spray.
- Silhouettes against the sunset from the top of the dune.
More to Try at Camp
After sandboarding, ride a camel (camel ride guide), take a quad bike out, or relax with henna before the evening shows. Prefer to see the dunes from above? Try a sunrise hot air balloon ride.
Book Your Desert Safari
Sandboarding comes free with every safari. See details on the activities page and book through our booking form — confirmation within 2 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sandboarding included in the desert safari?
Yes. Sandboarding is complimentary on every one of our desert safari packages, and boards are provided.
Do I need experience to sandboard?
No. Our team shows you the technique and you can slide sitting down or try standing up at your own pace.
Can children try sandboarding?
Yes. Sitting down on the board is fun and safe for children with a parent nearby.
Is sandboarding like snowboarding?
It is similar, but slower and softer. Sand has more friction than snow, so you go slower and falls are gentle.
